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 Ireland's historic National Theatre |
26 Lower Abbey Street Dublin, Leinster Ireland +353 1 887 2200 (Administration) / +353 1 878 7222 (Box Office) http://www.abbeytheatre.ie |
Founded in 1904 by W.B. Yeats and Lady Gregory, the Abbey is Ireland's national theatre and remains a crucial promoter of established and emerging Irish playwrights. The theatre's early years saw much controversy: the 1926 premiere of O'Casey's 'The Plough and the Stars' upset nationalist sensibilities and provoked Yeats to personally rebuke the audience, who felt offended by the depiction of the 1916 nationalist movement. Although generally less controversial these days, new Irish plays are still staged in the basement theatre, the Peacock. The theatre's Abbey Street premises has been open since 1961, but changes are afoot. The management is currently considering a move south of the river. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Cristiano Cardin |
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Spirit of the river Liffey |
O'Connell St Dublin Ireland +353 1 605 7700 |
The Anna Livia monument has been a bone of contention for Dubliners since it was erected in 1988. Designed by Eamonn O'Doherty to mark Dublin's own millennium, the gushing water sculpture features the goddess of the river Liffey in a suggestive pose and was immediately christened "the floozy in the Jacuzzi" by general consensus. Today, it is (unfortunately) the popular hang-out for customers of the numerous fast-food restaurants that line this part of O'Connell Street. With the erection of the new Monument of Light in this space, the fountain will shortly be relocated to a new site. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Inner-city oasis |
Blessington Street Phibsborough Dublin, Leinster Ireland +353 1 605 7700 (Dublin Tourism Centre) |
Stroll up beyond Parnell Square to the end of Blessington Street and you will find a little-known oasis of calm. Blessington Basin used to serve the water needs of this part of Dublin but it has recently been transformed into a small artificial lake (with the obligatory ducks and swans, of course), surrounded by pleasant landscaped seating areas. It's a surprisingly tranquil retreat in the often-hectic inner-city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: theapothecaryguy |
 Photo: Paul Duane |
 Photo: Blackie_Colmcille |
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Modernist classic |
Store Street Dublin Ireland +353 1 836 6111 |
Loved by some and loathed by others, Dublin's central bus station is one of the more interesting contemporary architectural features of the city. The building was designed by Michael Scott between 1945 and 1953 and was one of the first modern spaces in Dublin that attempted to integrate art and architecture, utilising elements like glazed facades and a controversial pavilionised top storey. The building was also ground-breaking because it attempted to incorporate a theatre in the basement and a restaurant on the top floor with great views over the city. This visionary project failed, however. The powers-that-be were unsuccessful in their attempts to promote the building properly and the restaurant and theatre were eventually abandoned. Aesthetics aside, if you're travelling out of the city, this is where you get your bus. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ricardo Rmx  |
 Photo: Andrea Flannery |
 Photo: Charles Haynes |
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Traditional Irish music centre |
Smithfield Village Dublin Ireland +353 1 817 3820 http://www.ceol.ie |
This relatively new venue in the heart of Smithfield, one of the oldest parts of Dublin, celebrates the story of Irish traditional song, music and dance. The centre features interactive touchscreens, music videos and a 180-degree widescreen auditorium, all of which investigate the contribution that Irish music has made to world culture. Admission: IEP5 for adults, IEP4 for students and senior citizens, IEP3.50 for children. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A stunning site |
Custom House Quay Dublin Ireland +353 1 878 7760 |
This Georgian building is a historically rich part of Dublin's urban landscape. Designed by James Gandon and finished in 1791, it fulfilled its designated purpose for only nine years: the 1800 Act of Union gave London control over Ireland's custom and excise, leaving the Custom House a mere symbol of former power. Election victory in 1921 for Sinn Fein saw the burning of the building, which militants considered a sign of British rule. Restoration work was finally finished as late as 1991. Pavilions, arcades and columns make up the façade, which is crowned by a vast copper dome and statue personifying Commerce. The visitor centre outlines the fascinating history of the building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: G. Christopher Clark |
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 Photo: Shalini Hollingum |
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 Photo: Iain McGillivray |
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Restoration and Renovation |
Custom House Quay Docklands Dublin, Leinster Ireland +353 1 818 3300 http://www.dublindocklands.ie/ |
The Dublin Docklands is a place of rejuvenation. The Development Authority has declared a new bridge to be constructed over the River Liffey. Its aim is to improve the quays by providing better and easier pedestrian access. Along with the bridge, the Authority is launching a fresh retail and dining destination. Not far away from the pedestrian bridge, George's Dock has also undergone a massive promotion, complete with new lighting, seating and impressive water features. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 To be or not to be... |
18 Great Denmark Street Dublin, Leinster Ireland +353 1 872 2077 http://www.writersmuseum.com/ |
Those curious about Dublin's literary art will do well to spend some quality time among man's best friends – books! The writer's museum, housed in a Georgian mansion, is a treasure-hold of collections dating as far back as three hundred years. It's not just the works you will browse through, but books, letters, portraits and personal items of some very famous writers, like Oscar Wilde. A visit to the Gallery of Writers is a must; the portraits and busts enhance this space, which is used for receptions and exhibitions. The experience is enhanced by temporary exhibitions and a lunchtime theatre. Top it off with a visit to the in-house bookshop and café. Admission charges are EUR6.50 for adults, EUR4 for children and EUR 18 for a family. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex |
 Photo: J.D. Falk |
 Photo: Harry Lachenmayer |
 Photo: Leif Harboe |
 Photo: travel feelings |
 Photo: Randall Snare |
 Photo: Giorgia Camponetti |
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Lest we forget... |
Custom House Quay Dublin Ireland +353 1 605 7700 |
"Famine" is a moving sculpture in commemoration of those forced to emigrate during the famine of the 19th century. The sculpture by Rowan Gillespie was bought and donated to the people of Ireland by Norma Smurfit, one of Ireland's more altruistic millionaires. The six larger-than-life figures evoke a haunted feel in this part of the quays, which is all the more significant as many of the emigrants departed from this quay to Liverpool and the New World. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Houghton |
 Photo: boulanger.IE |
 Photo: Pawel Malinowski |
 Photo: Patrick Goff |
 Photo: BCPOV |
 Photo: Darren Purcell |
 Photo: Michael Kestell |
 Photo: Mandi |
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 Photo: Dean Evans |
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 Photo: matt northam |
 Photo: John Horsey |
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A history of Irish sport |
St. Joseph's Avenue St. Joseph's Avenue Dublin Ireland +353 1 819 2323 http://museum.gaa.ie/ |
The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) was founded in 1884 and continues to be Ireland's largest sporting and cultural organisation. Located in Croke Park, the GAA Museum offers an interactive guide to the origins, development and expansion of the unique Irish games of Gaelic football, hurling, handball and camogie. A touchscreen archive also offers audio-visual presentations of memorable games, sporting heroes and even includes a number of quizzes to help test your knowledge of the sport. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Death in pursuit of freedom |
Parnell Square East Dublin, Leinster Ireland +353 1 647 2498 (Head Office) / +353 1 874 3074 |
Opened by President Eamon de Valera in 1966 for the fiftieth anniversary of the Easter Rising, this rather austere park serves as a fitting tribute to its martyred leaders. Daithi Hanly designed the lawns, which encircle a mosaic-tiled pool. The mosaic depicts swords, shields and arms, all broken to represent peace. At one end of the park stands a bronze statue of the Children of Lir, sculpted by Oisin Kelly. The children are an important part of Irish folklore - according to legend, they were turned into swans by their jealous stepmother for 900 years. They became human again after this time but, frail and weak, died soon afterwards. To this day, killing a swan in Ireland is illegal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: emelef |
 Photo: Ricardo Silva |
 Photo: Mark Waters |
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 Photo: Mark Waters |
 Photo: Matt Meyer |
 Photo: Bryan Fernandez |
 Photo: Wolfgang Schwarz |
 Photo: Loki Delta |
 Photo: d+w+f |
 Photo: Danny |
 Photo: Neil Dorgan |
 Photo: Ana Silva |
 Photo: Fabio Paoleri |
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Classic and contemporary plays |
1 Cavendish Row Dublin, Leinster Ireland +353 1 874 4045 / +353 1 874 6042 http://www.gate-theatre.ie/ |
Hilton Edwards and Micheal MacLiammoir first founded the Gate Theatre in 1928. It is housed in the annex of the magnificent Rotunda building on the top of O'Connell Street. The company generally produces a repertoire of classic Irish and international plays. Their acclaimed Beckett Festival played to packed houses in both London and New York. The Gate's splendid auditorium has recently been renovated and the charming curved bar is a very fine spot for a drink before and after the show. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Home of the Easter Rising |
O' Connell St Dublin Ireland +353 1 705 7000 |
Designed by Francis Johnston in 1818, the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street is known as the site of the 1916 Easter Rising. Irish Volunteers seized the building on Easter Monday and for six days held out against the British until the GPO was set on fire. The building was completely restored in 1929. Inside, stands a bronze statue depicting the death of the mythical Irish warrior Cuchulainn, dedicated to those who died in the uprising. The GPO has acquired iconic status; demonstrations and protests are often held outside. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eamon Martin |
 Photo: J. Carmichael |
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 Photo: Mike Travis |
 Photo: Desire (Petra Jacqueline) van de Schoor |
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Monument to Irish Socialism |
Beresford Place Dublin, Leinster Ireland |
Ireland's most famous socialist has recently been immortalised in bronze near Liberty Hall, headquarters of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions. James Connolly looks determinedly at the passing traffic while backed by a plough and stars. He was one of the signatories of the Declaration of the Republic in 1916, launching Ireland on the road to independence. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A fitting tribute |
35 North Great Georges Street Dublin Ireland +353 1 878 8547 http://www.jamesjoyce.ie/home/ |
This Georgian townhouse is beautifully restored thanks to the efforts of David Norris, a Joycean enthusiast, Irish Senator and human rights activist who saved the house from demolition. Once the home of Dennis Maginni and his dance school, the James Joyce Center hosts an extensive program of events, including films, lectures and walking tours of Joycean Dublin haunts. The center also organizes Bloomsday, an annual celebration of Joyce's "Ulysses," which takes place on June 16th. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alberto |
 Photo: Christina Racanelli |
 Photo: Harry Campbell |
 Photo: christianlycke |
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Prop up the bar |
Henrietta Street Constitution Hill Dublin Ireland +353 1 874 4840 http://www.kingsinns.ie |
King's Inns is James Gandon's last building. Gandon closed off the then much-sought-after Henrietta Street address to create this fine public building. The charming cupola was added in 1816 by Francis Johnston and construction was completed the following year. The gardens are a beautiful place to take a stroll, once you've been inside and seen the dining hall and Registry of Deeds. Edward Smyth is responsible for the exquisite caryatids on the west façade. Note the man holding the quill and book: he is a personification of the Law itself. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lisa cassidy |
 Photo: Maiseydotes |
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Witness an informal chat |
Liffey Street Dublin, Leinster Ireland |
On Liffey Street (near the Ha'penny Bridge) you will come across two bronze ladies having a chat. This charming sculpture formed part of a sculpture symposium to mark Dublin's millennium in 1988. Hilariously, an artistic thief snatched one of the ladies' bags (larger than life, bronze and very heavy) not long after the statue was erected. It has since been returned! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Georgian city-centre square |
Upper Gardiner Street Dublin, Leinster Ireland |
Although surrounded by magnificent Georgian townhouses, Mountjoy Square does not live up to its potential. In the 18th century, the square was the most elegant address in Dublin, but the migration of the gentry south of the river turned this district into a slum in a matter of decades. One hundred years ago, this part of town was one of the poorest areas in Europe, but recent refurbishments have given the area a new sheen. The square is traditionally landscaped with the ubiquitous trees, grass and roses but an adjacent tennis court seems somehow out of place in such elegant surroundings. The district deserves a visit, however: its Georgian terraces remain undiminished in elegance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Ireland's horticultural repository |
Finglas Road Glasnevin Dublin Ireland +353 1 837 7596 |
A short bus ride from the city centre, the splendid Botanic Gardens are always worth an afternoon's exploration. Entrance is free and guided tours are available most of the year. The gardens are divided into different areas of interest, featuring long herbaceous beds, a rose garden, alpine houses, a vegetable garden, an arboretum, a yew-walk along the river Tolka and a wonderful area exhibiting the various natural habitats of Ireland. The great glasshouses full of exotica were constructed in the mid 19th century and designed by Richard Turner, who was also responsible for the glasshouses at Kew Gardens. After all the fresh air, you'll probably need to visit the coffee shop to rest and recuperate. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: peppe yakanama |
 Photo: Barry Smyth |
 Photo: Barry Smyth |
 Photo: Neil Weightman |
 Photo: joanreynolds |
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The spirit of a new Dublin |
O'Connell Street Dublin, Leinster Ireland +353 1 222 2222 (Dublin City Council) http://www.dublincity.ie/livin... |
O'Connell Street has been rejuvenated. The spire monument, erected in January 2003, has replaced the Nelson's Pillar, following the removal of the Anna Livia Monument. This symbolizes the spirit of a new Dublin and a time capsule has been put under the Spire, to mark its unveiling. But this is not all. The construction of the plaza surrounding the squire has begun, so tourists and locals can look forward to it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex |
 Photo: peppe yakanama |
 Photo: peppe yakanama |
 Photo: Paul Watson |
 Photo: Paul Watson |
 Photo: Christopher Houben |
 Photo: James Caws |
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 Photo: Keith 'Broch' |
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 Photo: Bill Timmins |
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 Photo: Richard Pritchard |
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 A history of Irish whiskey! |
Bow Street Smithfield Village Dublin, Leinster Ireland +353 1 807 2355 http://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/ |
If whiskey is your poison, get ready to indulge to your heart's content. After the educational tour of the distillery, and your careful attention to the historical overview, retire to the in-house pub and make a little whiskey history of your own. There's also a restaurant with fixed price menus for lunch and dinner. Guided tour is EUR6.50; full tutored whiskey tasting, complete with taste comparisons, is an additional EUR6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sara simpson |
 Photo: JimmY |
 Photo: inuyasha_chii |
 Photo: Cecilia |
 Photo: Dan Koester |
 Photo: Brian McGuirk |
 Photo: Jack Shainsky |
 Photo: evaberry |
 Photo: Brian Walsh |
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Tours on wheels |
16 Amiens Street Railtours House Dublin, Leinster Ireland +353 1 856 0045 http://www.railtoursireland.com |
Hop on board this tour train and see parts of Ireland which you would have never been able to, in a couple of days. This service is a must for travelers, as you can choose the route you want and head off into the proverbial sunset! Ireland has phenomenal natural beauty from the coastline of Galway Bay to Waterford and Titanic's last port of call at Cobh. Another highlight of the train tours is the mystery ride, where your day is in the hands of your guide. So your destination will be a surprise and you may even have to jump into a different mode of transport, to be taken off the beaten track. Enjoy the ride. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Europe's first maternity hospital |
Parnell Square West Dublin Ireland +353 1 873 0700 http://www.rotunda.ie/ |
When the Rotunda Hospital opened in 1748, it was the first maternity hospital in Europe. Founded by surgeon, Bartholomew Mosse, the hospital takes its name from the great rotunda at its east end. Built by John Ensor as a venue for fund-raising occasions and concerts, Franz Liszt graced its stage in 1843. 62 years later, Sinn Fein was founded here by Arthur Griffiths. The latter's property is now home to the Gate Theatre. Visit the baroque chapel on the first floor. Stuccodore Cramillion, also responsible for the rococo plasterwork, created the wonderful ceiling in 1755. Stop in Conway's pub for a drink after your visit. The same age as the hospital, it has been the firm friend of many anxious fathers-to-be for centuries. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: d+w+f |
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Tranquil city retreat |
Phibsborough Dublin, Leinster Ireland http://homepage.eircom.net/~rc... |
Once an important part of Dublin and Ireland's transport network, the section of the Royal Canal that passes through the city is generally in a state of disrepair. One of the more charming stretches of the canal between Drumcondra and Phibsborough passes by the imposing towers of Mountjoy Prison. Like so many parts of Dublin, it is immortalised in a song, The Auld Triangle!. For those interested in angling, coarse fishing for roach, perch, pike, tench and eels is permitted between locks one to seven all year around. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Juhani Myllynen |
 Photo: Adrian Weckler |
 Photo: Shane Lewis |
 Photo: Shane Lewis |
 Photo: ard_an_ri |
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A secret retreat |
Phibsborough Dublin, Leinster Ireland +353 1 605 7700 |
This little-known park makes a handy short cut from Phibsborough to the city centre. Formerly an extension of the Royal Canal, the linear stretch was drained in the 18th century to facilitate a traditional Victorian park. Now the locals use it for dog- walking and on sunny days you'll find a mass of pink bodies stretched out here, catching the rays. The area feels a little isolated, however, so it's probably best to avoid the park at night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ronan Flynn |
 Photo: Thomas Scott |
 Photo: Thomas Scott |
 Photo: Siobhán Silke |
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Breathtaking views of the city |
Smithfield Village Dublin Ireland +353 1 817 3800 |
A curious landmark in the city, this former industrial chimney in the newly revamped Smithfield area now functions as an observation point from which visitors can view the whole of Dublin city, the surrounding countryside and Dublin Bay. A purpose-built glass elevator ascends the chimney to two viewing galleries and while Dublin's skyline is hardly the most spectacular, this is certainly a worthwhile excursion. The chimney is also available for private hire: so if you're considering hosting the reception of all receptions, why not give them a call? Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dennis Schibli |
 Photo: crypto |
 Photo: Caoimhín |
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 Photo: Meg Nesterov |
 Photo: Nick Warinton |
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Heart of Catholic Dublin |
Marlborough Street Dublin Ireland +353 1 874 5441 |
In 1814, planning started for the construction of a Catholic Pro-Cathedral (provisional cathedral) for Dublin. The Anglican ruling class was outraged at the idea that it should be built in central O'Connell Street, so the cathedral was constructed on a back-street site, hidden away, out of view. Located on Marlborough Street, Irish Catholics flocked here to hear Mass from as early as 1825, before Catholic Emancipation was fully in effect. The facade is based on the Temple of Theseus in Athens. The interior is more austere but has a beautiful depiction of the Ascension carved above the high altar. St Mary's Pro-Cathedral is home to the famous Palestrina Choir, where tenor, John McCormack, began his career. You can hear the choir singing every Sunday during the 11am Mass. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Keogh |
 Photo: Sreeraj Sreedharan |
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Atmospheric ruined monastery |
39271 Meetinghouse Lane Dublin Ireland +353 1 872 1490 |
This monastery - formerly one of the most important in Ireland - is now in ruins. Visitors can admire the vaulted chamber of the Chapter House and follow the display which outlines the rich history of the abbey. Although founded in 1139 by Benedictine monks, the monastery became Cistercian only eight years later. During the Reformation, the Abbey became the venue for meetings of the Council of Ireland. Shortly after Silken Thomas Fitzgerald's public renunciation of Henry VIII and subsequent execution in 1534, the monastery was dissolved. It became a quarry, whose stones were used in many 17th-century constructions, including the Essex Bridge which was replaced by the Grattan Bridge in 1874. Admission: Adult €1.50 Child €0.75 Student €0.75 Senior €1.00 Family €4.25 Group €1.00 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Orla Ryan |
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Discount flights and more |
19 Aston Quay Dublin Ireland +353 1 602 1777 http://www.usit.ie/ |
This Dublin branch of the international students' organisation offers a wide range of budget air flights and travel passes to destinations all over the world. Holders of Usit's ISIC card can get countless discounts both in Ireland and abroad. Usit's cluttered noticeboards are a good place to start if you happen to be seeking flat-sharing accommodation or casual employment in the city. They also stock a wide range of travel literature and offer internet access upstairs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |